The English king Henry the Eighth is famous for having invented the Royal Wave.

Before the invention of the Royal Wave, all royals simply swung their arms like monkeys and grunted loudly.

If only for this reason alone, Henry brought a new dignity to being a king.

Henry actually invented half a dozen different waves. They are known today as the Six Waves of Henry the Eighth. All six are shown below.

1. The 'Hi there!'
henry viii wave 1

2. The 'Hello Auntie!'
henry viii wave 2

3. The 'Yoo-hoo! I'm over here!'
henry viii wave 3

4. The 'Yo, Cardinal!'
henry viii wave 4

5. The Bathroom Waft
henry viii wave 5

6. The 'Help! A wasp!'
henry viii wave 6


NOTE: Henry's six wives were all said to be very aware of his fondness for having them executed.

In response, each was said to spend many hours each day in front of a mirror practicing waving goodbye.